Darwin is your gateway to the Top End’s spectacular natural wonders. People right around the country are drawn to the Territory for it’s wild landscapes and fair share of waterholes. 

Litchfield, Kakadu and Nitmiluk are the Top End’s most popular national parks. As a visitor to the NT, it can be hard to know what to expect at each. We’ve given you a run down of the 3 parks so you can choose your Top End adventure.

Litchfield

Just 1.5 hours south of Darwin, Litchfield is the place to go if you want an easy day trip. The park does have a range of camping options, but if you’re short on time it’s an easy way to get amongst Top End nature on your visit. 

Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole are the most popular spots, but if you want to escape the crowds we’d recommend exploring Cascade Falls. It’s a lengthier walk to the falls (2.6km return for Lower Cascades and 3.3km return for Upper Cascades) but one of the best ways to see Litchfield. And of course, you’ll be rewarded with a swim in the pristine rock pools! 

For those with a 4WD, Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek) and Surprise Creek Falls are local recommendations. You’ll also get to experience some awesome river crossings on your way there.

Nitmiluk

Nitmiluk National Park is renowned for its 13 spectacular gorges which wind their way through the sandstone country. 

There’s a bunch of different ways you can explore Nitmiluk. Jump in a canoe and take your time to paddle up the gorge, enjoy a cruise (we recommend the dawn and sunset tours) or even check it out from above in a helicopter. 

For the adventure seekers, Nitmiluk has some world class mountain biking trails that carve along the top of the gorges. Or, you can opt to do the Jatbula Trail, a 5-6 day hike that traverses the park and neighbouring Arnhem Land escarpment. 

Nitmiluk is only 30km out of Katherine, so you can also explore the township while you’re there. On your way back to Darwin, stop at Edith Falls and cool off in the upper pools. 

Kakadu

If you want to escape the world for a few days, exploring Australia’s biggest national park might be the best way to do it. Kakadu National Park stretches over 20,000 km2 and is home to some of the most preserved and biodiverse ecosystems in the world. 

People are drawn to Kakadu for its spectacular towering waterfalls, escarpments and rich Aboriginal culture and history. 

While the dry season (April to October) is the busiest time in Kakadu, the wet season (November to April) is when the park really comes alive. When the rains come, Kakadu transforms into a lush green landscape with overflowing waterfalls and thriving flora and fauna.

One of the best ways to experience Kakadu in the tropical summer is from the air. There are a range of tour operators who run scenic fligths and helicopter tours over Kakadu's biggest waterfalls - Jim Jim and Twin Falls.

While you’re in Kakadu, make sure you check out the Nawurlandja lookout walk and Ubirr Rock for incredible views.

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Photo credit: Tourism NT